Director of Music
Contract Type: Permanent/Ongoing Position Full Time
Applications Close: 24 August 2025
Outstanding opportunity to lead a dynamic, vibrant and acclaimed music education department at Scotch College, Melbourne.
• Promote excellence in classroom music education across P-12
• Actively engage young people in a comprehensive, international music program
• Provide inspiration, vision and support to a dedicated, talented team of staff
<p>Scotch College, Melbourne is a leading independent day and boarding boys’ school with a rich history dating back to 1851. With a focus on Christian values, Scotch College provides a dynamic learning environment for almost 1,900 students from the Preparatory to Year 12. The College enjoys a strong reputation in the delivery of its co-curricular programs, and considers the Music Program to be an integral part of the school’s curriculum and culture.</p>
<p>Following the retirement of Dr John Ferguson after 35 years, the legacy of the Scotch Music Department includes approximately 90 staff, in excess of 25 ensembles, and a high performance touring Orchestra that enjoys an international reputation. Scotch College is particularly renowned for its award winning Pipe Band, established in 1946, which is one of the oldest school pipe bands in Australia. Partnerships have been formed with independent schools in relation to the performance of musicals and there are a range of external musical associations who utilise the extraordinary rehearsal and performance spaces that comprise the James Forbes Academy.<br>
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Scotch College, Melbourne are seeking an experienced and passionate Director of Music with proven success as a leader of a significant school-based music program to facilitate, support and enhance excellence in music education and performance. Reporting jointly to the Vice Principal Teaching and Learning, and the Principal, The Director of Music will lead a dynamic and inclusive department that nurtures a love of music in every student while supporting performance at the highest level. This role oversees an extensive curricular and co-curricular program, including orchestras, choirs, bands, chamber ensembles, jazz and contemporary music, supported by a comprehensive instrumental and classroom music curriculum. The Director ensures a culture where every boy has the opportunity to engage deeply with music, whether as a performer, composer, or appreciative listener.</p>
<p>Leading by example, the Director of Music will:</p>
<ul>
<li>Shape and deliver a strategic vision for music that reflects Scotch’s values and mission</li>
<li>Champion excellence in performance, teaching, learning, and innovation across all music pathways</li>
<li>Mentor and empower a large, high-performing team of music educators</li>
<li>Engage and inspire students of all abilities to participate and excel</li>
<li>Oversee an ambitious annual calendar of concerts, tours, and community events</li>
<li>Build strong partnerships within the Scotch community and with key national and international stakeholders</li>
</ul>
<p>The successful candidate will be:</p>
<ul>
<li>A relational and inspiring leader with a record of building high-performing teams and vibrant musical cultures</li>
<li>A distinguished musician and educator, able to conduct or direct ensembles at the highest level across diverse genres</li>
<li>A strategic thinker with operational expertise to manage complex programs, resources and facilities</li>
<li>A passionate advocate for the role of music in the holistic development of young people</li>
</ul>
<p>Scotch College staff support the College’s Christian heritage and comply with the school’s child safety policies and related procedures, upholding the principles and values set out in relevant legislation. The College has a zero-tolerance policy for child abuse and is committed to the safety and wellbeing of all students.</p>